Cedar Breaks National Monument
Where the Mountain Opens in Color
Stand along the rim of a vast natural amphitheater filled with crimson cliffs, delicate hoodoos, and layers of rose, amber, and white stone. More than 10,000 feet above sea level, Cedar Breaks brings together ancient bristlecone pines, alpine wildflowers, sweeping views, and crystal-clear night skies.
Follow the Land. Find the Story.
Cedar Breaks
at a Glance
Location:
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Southern Utah, near Brian Head and Cedar City
Known for:
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A colorful, half-mile-deep natural amphitheater
Elevation:
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More than 10,000 feet
Dark Sky Park:
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Yes ☾✦
Open:
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Year-round, with seasonal road access
Three Ways to Explore Cedar Breaks
Point Supreme Overlook
Gaze across the monument’s immense amphitheater, where erosion has sculpted brilliant cliffs, spires, and hoodoos.
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Experience: Scenic overlook
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Best for: First-time visitors and panoramic views
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Walking: A short stroll from the parking area
Alpine Pond Trail
Wander through spruce-fir forest, wildflower meadows, and scenic overlooks on the way to a peaceful alpine pond.
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Distance: 1- or 2-mile loop options
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Difficulty: Moderate
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Best for: Wildflowers, forest scenery, and amphitheater views
South Rim Trail
Follow the rim toward Spectra Point and ancient bristlecone pines, with increasingly expansive views along the way.
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Distance: Up to 5 miles round trip
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Difficulty: Moderately strenuous
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Best for: Bristlecone pines and dramatic viewpoints
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Important: The return includes an uphill climb at high elevation
Stand above a masterpiece carved in color.
From Daylight to Starlight
When twilight settles across the amphitheater, its crimson formations fade into shadow and the high-country sky fills with stars.
Cedar Breaks is an International Dark Sky Park and offers nighttime views from its overlooks throughout the year.
☾✦
Explore Responsibly
Remain on designated trails, stay above the amphitheater rim, protect delicate alpine vegetation, and leave wildflowers, rocks, and ancient trees untouched.
Walk softly through the high country. Leave its colors wild.
Before You Go
Cedar Breaks’ high elevation brings rapidly changing weather, cooler temperatures, strong sun, and afternoon lightning.
The main park road typically closes to vehicles during the snowy season.
Stand above the colors. Wander among ancient trees. Stay until the mountain meets the stars.
Photography by Michelle Kelly
